Lusaka, Zambia – April 30, 2026 – Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) has successfully conducted a Code 6 Emergency Response Exercise at the Domestic Passenger Terminal Building (Terminal One) at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) in Lusaka.
The exercise was aimed at enhancing preparedness and reaffirming ZACL’s commitment to maintaining the highest levels of safety and security across Zambia’s airport network.
Simulation Based on Hypothetical Bomb Threat
According to a statement issued by ZACL, the emergency drill was based on a hypothetical bomb threat scenario, designed to reflect real-world security risks that airports around the world must be prepared to handle.
Although the situation was controlled, ZACL noted that the exercise was critical in ensuring that response teams remain alert, coordinated, and ready to respond swiftly in the event of an actual security threat.
Exercise Tested Response Coordination and Decision-Making
ZACL stated that the drill tested KKIA’s ability to quickly detect, report, and respond to potential threats.
It also assessed coordination among key airport response teams including:
Aviation Security
Airport Police
Rescue and Fire Services
Airport Management
The simulation further evaluated crucial decision-making processes involving:
evacuation procedures
emergency communication
access control and restricted area management
ZACL Says Airport Security Measures Are Essential
ZACL emphasized that airports remain among the most security-sensitive environments in the country, and that all procedures passengers go through are meant to protect lives, infrastructure, and national airspace.
The corporation explained that processes such as entry screening, baggage checks, restricted access controls and boarding procedures may appear strict, but they are vital for preventing threats before they escalate.
Passengers Urged to Cooperate With Security Protocols
ZACL reminded members of the public that airport safety is a shared responsibility and encouraged passengers to support security efforts by:
complying with all screening and security procedures
avoiding leaving luggage unattended
reporting suspicious objects or behaviour to airport officials
following emergency instructions promptly
Simulations Part of International Aviation Safety Standards
ZACL reassured the travelling public that such exercises are routine and form part of international aviation safety requirements.
The corporation stated that the purpose of the simulations is to continuously improve emergency response capabilities, protect passengers, and maintain Zambia’s airports as safe and secure travel hubs.
The statement was issued by Mwamba Chasaya–Siame, Senior Manager Corporate Affairs and Communication.